There’s no denying that there is a connection between alcohol and violence. Unfortunately, alcohol can lead to more cases of fights between strangers, road rage, and domestic violence. But why does drinking alcohol make some people more prone to aggression? Alcohol is enjoyable for some in the same way as it is dangerous for others. The impulsivity that might make one person buy a round at the bar for strangers might make another want to start a bar brawl. The lowered inhibitions that lead you to the karaoke stage might be what makes another person display the abusive tendencies they’ve been hiding. Other factors at play are the cognitive difficulties that drinking can cause as well as more risky behavior in general. Alcohol can be dangerous for many reasons, but an increase in violent tendencies is a reason to get professional help.
The Connection Between Alcohol and Violence: Why Drinking Can Be Dangerous
Impulsivity
One of the reasons why alcohol and violence have a connection is because alcohol can lead to more impulsivity. Being impulsive can be a good thing for some and a negative for others. While a person might be able to control their aggression when sober, becoming more impulsive might lead to fights. In addition, things that wouldn’t usually be a big deal can seem like major offenses to somebody under the influence.
Lowered Inhibitions
Another connection between alcohol and violence comes from the lowering of inhibitions. Many people find that this is one of the best things about drinking. They are braver and more easygoing, and more willing to try new experiences. However, for somebody that has some aggression issues, drinking might bring out the worst in them. While they can contain their emotions sober, they might have more trouble restraining themselves when drunk.
Cognitive Trouble
Drinking can lead to cognitive trouble which can also be a link between alcohol and violence. When you drink, your brain works differently and often leaves you feeling fuzzy. This can lead to problems with your decision-making skills. For somebody that leans towards aggression, it might mean the difference between realizing that a minor offense isn’t worth fighting about versus getting into a bar brawl. In addition, long-term drinkers have trouble with moodiness and irritability, both of which can lead to more instances of violence.
Risk-Taking
Finally, alcohol can also lead to more risk-taking, which can be another link between alcohol and violence. An abuser might realize that if they were to hit their partner, they would get in legal trouble. However, when under the influence, they might not be as concerned about the consequences.
Alcohol and drinking unfortunately go hand in hand for some people. And this can often lead to dangerous situations for the people around them. Especially their partners. Impulsivity and lowered inhibitions might make them more likely to act on their aggressive thoughts. The poor decision-making and risk-taking that are often connected to alcohol can also lead somebody to not think about the consequences of aggressive actions. If you feel that you or your partner has trouble with violence when under the influence, it’s time to seek out professional help. Reach out to your doctor, a rehabilitation facility, or your local twelve-step program to begin learning how to get sober. Hopefully, by getting the help you need, you can keep yourself out of trouble and the people around you safer.